Amid the much-touted growth of smartphones and tablets, sales of laptops continued apace in the Southeast Asian region, according to German market research firm GfK.
In a research report, GfK said laptop sales in the region for the period January to September hit 4.9 million units for a total value of $2.2 billion. No comparative data was provided for the same period last year.
The report covered sales data from the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Over all, Indonesia cornered the largest market with 35 percent of overall laptops sales volume and 28 percent in sales value, while Malaysia trailed second with 21 percent and 22 percent of volume and sales respectively.
?The growing focus towards convenience and portability in recent years has shifted consumer preference towards buying mobile devices like smartphones and tablets; inevitably impacting the demand of the overall laptop market,? said Gerard Tan, account director for digital world at GfK Asia.
?At the same time, Thailand?s lackluster sales due to the political unrest which took place earlier in this year had a some bearing on the sector?s performance in the region.?
GfK also noted that laptops with larger screen sizes are now gaining ground. The 15- and 17-inch models and above showed a strong 61 percent and 49 percent growth rate. By comparison, total market share of the 15 inch category expanded by 8 percent.
?With the portability criteria already fulfilled by smartphones and tablets, it makes sense for consumers who are still seeking smart connected devices to acquire a device with larger screen,? said Tan.
?Besides, consumers are increasingly using computers for consumption of digital content these days and bigger screens make for better viewing experiences.?
